| Volume 32 Number 9 |
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The People’s Lawyer’s Tip of the Day
Did you get a cheap rate by signing up for a long-term contract? If you did, be sure to check when that contract expires. Unless you renew for another long term, your rates will increase substantially. Contact the company before your rate increase and negotiate a new agreement. Click here for more.
Court Allows Cigarette Labeling Cases to Continue
In a big win for consumers, The Supreme Court on Monday handed a surprising defeat to tobacco companies. The court ruled that smokers may use state consumer protection laws to sue cigarette makers for the way they promote "light" cigarettes. Certainly, the ruling is at odds with recent decisions that limit state regulation in favor of federal power.
The cigarette companies argued that such lawsuits are barred by the federal cigarette labeling law. The labeling law forbids states from regulating any aspect of cigarette advertising that involves smoking and health. Regardless, the majority of the court held the labeling law does not shield the companies from state laws against deceptive practices. As a result, the cigarette companies will have to defend many lawsuits across the country, alleging violations of the many consumer protection acts. Click here for more.
OPEC Cuts Production
The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries ("OPEC"), said Wednesday that it would cut production by 2.2 million barrels a day starting next month. OPEC claims the effort is an attempt to "stabilize prices." After dropping more than $100 since July of 2008, OPEC is seeking to drive prices up after the economic downtown reduced demand. Even after OPEC's announcement, oil prices fell again. In the long term, the cut is expected to increase oil prices and refined products like gasoline. When should you expect the prices to jump? Click here for more.
10 Ways to Save on Electronics
As you make your final run to get some last minute gifts, there are several great ways to save! For example, you may get some great last minute prices online. Also, you probably don't need pricey add-ons or an extended warranty. Even further savings can be found by buying refurbished, or open box. In fact, you can often simply just ask for a "better price." When you make the final push to get gifts this holiday season, arm yourself with great techniques to save a little extra cash. Click here for more.
Chrysler Stops All Production
Chrysler announced late Wednesday that it is stopping all vehicle production in the United States for at least a month. Citing a lack of available consumer credit, Chrysler has been strapped for months. Chrysler is the first of the Big Three automakers to see the beginning of the end. All 30 plants will be closed until at least Jan. 19 2009. Will Chrysler ever return?
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Your Money
How much will my CD be worth at maturity? Click here for more.
For the Lawyers
Class action based on untimely filing of lawsuit goes forward. A district court in Florida has denied the defendants' motion to dismiss a claim based on filing suit after the statute of limitations has run. The court upheld the plaintiff's allegations that Defendants' practice of attempting to collect on debts after expiration of the applicable statute of limitations and Defendants' practice regarding attorney's fees runs afoul of the FDCPA. Click here for more.